The Benefits of Renting with Dollar Car Rental Company | Tips and FAQs

The Benefits of Renting with Dollar Car Rental

Renting a car can be an economical and convenient way to get around when you're traveling or if you just need a vehicle temporarily. Dollar Car Rental is one of the most popular rental car companies in the United States and beyond. There are many benefits to choosing Dollar for your next car rental needs.

Wide Selection of Vehicles

With over 600 locations in the United States and Canada, Dollar likely has a rental location conveniently near you. Their large fleet includes options ranging from compact and economy cars to luxury vehicles, SUVs, vans, and trucks. Whether you need a car for a day or several weeks, require extra space for luggage and passengers, or want to drive in style, Dollar has you covered.

Great Rates and Deals

As an industry leader, Dollar is able to offer very competitive pricing on their rental vehicles. They frequently run special offers and discounts for members of their Dollar Express Rewards program, AAA members, government employees, and military personnel. Signing up for email alerts is a great way to find out about limited-time promotions and coupon codes that can save you money off your rental.

Easy Reservations

Booking your Dollar rental car is quick and convenient. You can make reservations online, through the Dollar app, or over the phone. Input your rental location and dates and select the vehicle you want, then provide payment information to lock in your booking. You can also select any add-ons like GPS or car seats at the time of reservation.

FastRental® Service

For an even faster rental experience, take advantage of Dollar's exclusive FastRental® service. After reserving your car, you can bypass the rental counter and head straight to the Dollar FastRental® area of the parking garage. Scan your driver's license at the rental kiosk and you'll instantly get your rental agreement and keys. It's the ultimate way to skip lines and paperwork.

Car Class Upgrades

While Dollar already offers low base rates on their rental vehicles, you may be able to score an even better deal with a complimentary car class upgrade. As long as availability permits, Dollar agents can upgrade your rental car to the next class above what you reserved. So you might find yourself driving off in a SUV instead of a compact sedan, or a luxury vehicle rather than a standard-size car.

Travel Protection Products

To give you extra peace of mind on your trip, Dollar offers several optional products that provide enhanced protection and coverage. Personal accident insurance, personal effects coverage, and supplemental liability insurance are designed to supplement your personal auto insurance policy and reduce out-of-pocket expenses in the event of an accident or loss. Roadside assistance protection offers 24/7 access to tire changes, jump starts, locksmith services, and more.

Flexible Pickup and Return

Dollar makes it easy to pick up and drop off your rental car when it's convenient for you. You can reserve a car for pickup at the airport location or have it delivered directly to your home, hotel, or workplace. Dollar also offers after-hours return at many locations, allowing you to simply park the vehicle and drop the keys in a secure night box.

Travel Rewards and Partnerships

Renting from Dollar allows you to earn rewards and get the most value out of your trip budget. As a partner with many major airlines, hotel chains, and credit card reward programs, Dollar reservations let you stack up points for free flights, room nights, and more. Dollar is also affiliated with Costco's car rental program, allowing Costco members to save even more on already low rental rates.

What to Expect When Renting with Dollar

Renting a car through Dollar is a smooth and straightforward process from start to finish. Here's an overview of what to expect as a Dollar customer:

Booking Your Rental

You can conveniently reserve a Dollar rental car online, through Dollar's mobile app, or by calling their reservations team. Provide details like rental location, dates/times, vehicle preferences, and any add-ons you want. Have your driver's license info and payment details ready to complete the booking.

Picking Up Your Vehicle

Head to the Dollar rental counter on your scheduled pickup date and time. Provide your name and reservation confirmation, then present your driver's license, confirmation email/text, and payment method. A Dollar agent will review your reservation details, have you sign the rental agreement, and hand over your keys.

Inspecting the Rental

Before driving off, inspect your Dollar rental vehicle alongside the agent, checking for any prior damage and ensuring everything is in working order. Note any issues on the rental agreement. Take photos and videos documenting the car's condition at pickup as an extra precaution.

Hitting the Road

Adjust the mirrors, GPS, seat position, and climate controls to your preferences before heading out. Carefully review Dollar's rules and policies regarding authorized drivers, permits, tolls, fueling, and more detailed in your rental agreement.

Returning the Vehicle

Return your Dollar rental car to the same location during open hours on your scheduled date. Refuel the tank if needed per your rental agreement. Remove any personal belongings and trash. An agent will inspect the car with you and sign off on the completed rental.

Closing Your Rental

The Dollar agent will review any mileage overages or extra days you kept the car and settle any remaining charges. Your receipt will reflect your base rate, taxes/fees, and any additional costs. Future rental credits may apply if you prepaid for your reservation. With that, your Dollar rental experience is complete!

Tips for Renting with Dollar

Follow these tips and best practices for an optimal experience when renting a car through Dollar:

Reserve Early

Book your rental car as far in advance as possible to lock in the best rates and ensure vehicle availability for your travel dates.

Join Rewards

Enroll in the free Dollar Express Rewards program to earn free rental days and other perks on future rentals.

Prepay

Consider prepaying for your reservation when booking to get the lowest possible rental rate locked in.

Protect Your Rental

Add Dollar's damage waiver and supplemental liability protection to reduce financial risks if the vehicle is damaged or stolen.

triple up coverage

In addition to Dollar's protection options, your own car insurance and credit card coverage may provide additional protection.

Avoid Airport Locations

Booking off-airport Dollar locations can save you money compared to airport rental counters.

Book Extras Upfront

Add any GPS devices, car seats, or other accessories when making your reservation to get the best rates on addons.

Check for Deals

Search for Dollar coupon codes and check the homepage for special offers before completing your reservation.

Use Mobile Apps

Dollar's app makes it easy to book, modify, or cancel rentals right from your phone.

Frequently Asked Questions

How old do I need to be to rent with Dollar?

To rent a vehicle from Dollar you must be at least 20 years old (at least 25 for luxury, large passenger, and cargo vans). Drivers under 25 may be subject to additional daily fees.

Can I use a debit card to rent from Dollar?

Yes, Dollar accepts debit cards to pay for your rental if the card has a Visa or Mastercard logo. Your name must be embossed on the card. Debit card rentals require a deposit to cover the rental cost.

What forms of payment does Dollar accept?

Dollar accepts most major credit cards including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. Debit cards, traveler's checks, and cash are also accepted at some locations. Prepaid cards are not accepted.

How can I save money on a Dollar rental car?

Joining Dollar's rewards program, booking well in advance, opting for off-airport locations, avoiding upgrades, and refueling yourself are some ways to save on your Dollar car rental.

Does Dollar offer one-way rentals?

Yes, most Dollar locations allow one-way rentals where you pickup at one location and drop off at another. One-way fees and mileage limits apply. Airport rentals may have different one-way policies.

What is Dollar's policy on refueling rental cars?

Dollar gives renters the choice of prepaying for a full tank, returning full, or paying for the difference upon return if not refilled. Review fuel policies closely as high per-gallon rates often apply.

Why Choose Dollar Car Rental

For over 60 years, Dollar has been dedicated to providing excellent service, quality vehicles, and great value to leisure and business travelers alike. Their extensive global footprint, competitive low rates, and popular loyalty program make them an ideal choice for your next car rental. Plus, their friendly staff aims to make every rental experience a positive one. For comfort, convenience, and savings on your next trip, look no further than Dollar.

FAQs

What is Dollar's policy on refueling rental cars?

Dollar gives renters the choice of prepaying for a full tank, returning full, or paying for the difference upon return if not refilled. Review fuel policies closely as high per-gallon rates often apply.

How can I save money on a Dollar rental car?

Joining Dollar's rewards program, booking well in advance, opting for off-airport locations, avoiding upgrades, and refueling yourself are some ways to save on your Dollar car rental.

Does Dollar offer one-way rentals?

Yes, most Dollar locations allow one-way rentals where you pickup at one location and drop off at another. One-way fees and mileage limits apply. Airport rentals may have different one-way policies.

What forms of payment does Dollar accept?

Dollar accepts most major credit cards including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. Debit cards, traveler's checks, and cash are also accepted at some locations. Prepaid cards are not accepted.

How old do I need to be to rent with Dollar?

To rent a vehicle from Dollar you must be at least 20 years old (at least 25 for luxury, large passenger, and cargo vans). Drivers under 25 may be subject to additional daily fees.